Another month is nearly here and with warmer days ahead, we’re jonesing to get out and about. Luckily, for those with vacations or big Mother’s Day plans, there are plenty of ways to do so for $25 or less! From dance parties to festivals, markets and more, here are 10 cheap or FREE things to do in Calgary this May. Enjoy!

SHIMMER AT THE TAYLOR SWIFT BEJEWELED DANCE PARTY

 

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For those with heartache and Midnights on repeat, the Palace Theatre will be holding a Taylor Swift Bejeweled-themed dance party this month! Are you ready for it? Make the friendship bracelets, then head to this website and snag your tickets now.

When: Friday, May 5th, 2023
Where: 219 8th Avenue SW, Calgary
Time: 9 pm – 2 am
Cost: $24

CELEBRATE CINCO DE MAYO

It’s nearly that time again! May 5th is coming in hot and there are a ton of incredible spots all over the city celebrating with unreal food, live entertainment, and amazing specials.

SIP YOUR WAY THROUGH ALBERTA’S INTERNATIONAL BEER FESTIVAL

Thirsty? This May, the Alberta International Beer Fest will take Calgary on an incredibly affordable booze cruise across the world. Consider our Ubers ordered and our hangover kits ready!

When: Friday, May 5th – 6th, 2023
Where: BMO Centre – 20 Roundup Way, Calgary, AB
Time: 5:30 pm
Cost: $19+

ATTEND THE MAKER FAIRE

From engineers and artists to crafters and scientists, the Maker Faire will give curious Calgarians a place to create, invent and network. Described as the “Greatest Show (& Tell) on Earth,” tickets for this family-friendly event are on sale now!

When: Friday, May 13th – 14th, 2023
Where: BMO Centre – 20 Roundup Way SE Calgary, AB
Time: 10 am
Cost: $5

OR TAKE A HIKE

In need of a little fresh air? As long as the weather continues to cooperate, why not treat yourself to a stunning spring hike in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains this May? Check the link above for our favourites and enjoy!

HIT THE NICKELBACK EXHIBIT

Costumes, photos and behind-the-scenes footage! The National Music Centre presents its highly anticipated Nickelback exhibit! Featuring instruments and other items that belong to Canada’s best-selling rock group, fans are going to love it!

When: Until February 2024
Where: 850 4 St. SE, Calgary, AB
Cost: $21.50

VISIT A POP-UP GARDEN CENTRE

With wholesale prices, 4 locations across the city, and expert staff, the Glow Garden pop-ups are back! This annual shopping event is familiar to many and beloved by plant enthusiasts and admirers – so don’t miss it!

Where: see locations above

INDULGE IN LA PIZZA WEEK

We hope you’re hungry, Calgary! La Pizza Week is nearly here and from May 1st until the 14th, foodies will be encouraged to get down and get cheesy all over the country. From coast to coast, ovens will be hot and toppings will be plenty with restaurants competing for your vote.

When: Monday, May 1st – 14th, 2022
Where: TBA
Cost: Prices vary

WALK YOUR WAY THROUGH CONTEMPORARY CALGARY

Looking for inspiration? This May, wander Contemporary Calgary – a modern museum with wide-open spaces and many a tale to tell.  The best part? Admission is only $10, so check it out!

When: Open Wednesday to Sunday
Where: 701 11th Street SW
Cost: $10 for GA

VISIT WITH THE ANIMALS AT COBB’S ADVENTURE PARK 

They’re back! This May, snuggle a kangaroo or two, go axe throwing, and place a bet on a round of minigolf! Cobb’s Adventure Park is set to open again for the season on May 20th and in our opinion, there’s really no better way to get outdoors than this.

When: Saturday, May 20th, 2023
Where: 1500 84th Street NE, Calgary
Time: 11 am – 5 pm
Tickets: $21+

TAKE ON YYCAESARFEST

Created by Walter Chell In 1969, the Caesar is deeply rooted in our history so it only makes sense that one of the largest events celebrating the drink is held in Calgary! This month fans of the drink can hit the Stampede grounds where local bars and restaurants will be showcasing different variations of the boozy bevy under one roof.

When: Saturday, May 20th – 21st, 2023
Where: 1801 Big Four Trail SE, Calgary
Time: 4 pm – 10 pm
Cost: $25

RIDE THE CANYON SKI RESORT ALPINE COASTER

Set to open over Victoria Day long weekend, Red Deer’s epic Canyon Coaster is approximately 1,345 metres, can travel at a speed of 40 km/hr and has a 440-foot vertical drop in total. Interested in taking it for a ride? Check out the link above for more information!

When: Opens Victoria Day long weekend, May 2023
Where: 38433, Range Rd 264A, AB
Time: Wednesday – Sunday 11 am-6 pm
Cost: $25

And here you have it! 12 free and cheap things to do in Calgary this May. What will you check out first?

Curiocity Staff

With a curated slate of what matters in your city, Curiocity presents you with the most relevant local food, experiences, news, deals, and adventures. We help you get the most out of your city and focus on the easy-to-miss details so that you’re always in the know.
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